The list of winners that include actors, filmmakers, and writers at the 78th edition of the Cannes film Festival. (Compiled by - Kripa Elsa Varghese)
The most prestigious and coveted award in the film industry was awarded to Iranian film-maker Jafar Panahi for his film, ‘Un Simple Accident’ (It Was Just an Accident). The film chronicles former prisoner Vahid and his fellow mates, and the moral dilemma they face when they come in contact with their prison officer Eghbal.
The second most prestigious prize of the festival, Cannes Grand Prix was awarded to Joachim Trier directed film, ‘AFFEKSJONSVERDI’ (Sentimental Value). Written by Joachim Trier and Eskil Vogt, the movie features the reunion of two sisters and their estranged father.
This year, the Jury Prize was split between two competing feature films, Sirat and Sound of Falling. Directed by French-Spanish Filmmaker Oliver Laxe, Sirat follows the apocalyptic journey of a father and his son in search of his missing daughter. Mascha Schilinski's Sound of Falling explores the story of four women who are indefinitely united by their trauma.
Kleber Mendonça Filho won Best Director for his film O Agente Secreto (The Secret Agent), a compelling drama set in the 1970s. The former journalist forayed into film-making with his highly acclaimed feature film ‘Neighboring Sounds’ in 2012.
Famously known as the Dardenne brothers, both Luc Dardenne and Jean-Pierre Dardenne won Best Screenplay at Cannes 2025 for their feature film ‘Jeunes Mères’ (The Young Mother’s Home), a story that revolves around five teenagers who live in a shelter for young mothers.
23-year-old actress Nadia Melliti won the Best performance by an actress award at the 78th Cannes Film Festival for her role as Fathima, a teenager exploring her identity and individual freedom while grappling with her loyalty to her family.
Brazilian actor Wagner Moura was awarded the Best performance by an actor for his role in the film O Agente Secreto (The Secret Agent), directed by Kleber Mendonça Filho. He portrays Marcelo, a technical expert who returns to his hometown with hopes of reuniting with his son, but is met with extraordinary circumstances.
Directed by Bi Gan, the film Kuang Ye Shi Dai (Resurrection) received the Special Award at Cannes this year. The film features a haunting fictional world where humans have lost the ability to dream, the story follows a woman with a rare power as she embarks on a journey to uncover the truths.